LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. (KCTV) – Lee’s Summit West girls flag football players received a visit from Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Cole Christiansen as part of the team’s military appreciation efforts.
The visit combined the NFL’s “Salute to Service” initiative with the Chiefs’ “Military Mission” program. Christiansen, who attended Army West Point, spoke to the players about service and breaking barriers.
“It’s pretty surreal, like these people they play for the Chiefs. It’s a really cool experience,” said Alina Wilson, a student-athlete.
Christiansen said his military background shapes his approach to community service.
“It’s really important to know it as a current soldier. But also, it’s paying homage and remembering who came before us and what we’re still fighting for. They were fighting for the same thing back then,” Christiansen said.
The linebacker also praised the growth of girls flag football in high school sports.
“Female flag football players, I think that’s really cool. That wasn’t really a thing when I was in high school. Just to see that’s exploding so much is really really cool. It’s not just guys anymore that get to play football,” Christiansen said.
The visit allowed the Lee’s Summit West players to connect their love of football with respect for military service members.
Coach Samuel Jwsome said the experience reinforced lessons he teaches his players throughout the season.
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